fresh v salt..does it matter

[capel679]

i am about to take ownership of a grp hulled boat. she has been in fresh water all her life and i wondered if now going into salt water is likely to have any effect on the hull...
i know about annodes. just the grp hull is my concern.
ta in advance

 

[gjgm]

modern grp hulls will probably last forever! Think the main reason for sellers saying fresh water is that its alot less corrosive on fittings,engines, etc etc- nothing to do with the grp.

 

[pvb]

Only a beneficial effect...

I imagine you're wondering about osmosis. Although there's still some debate about osmosis, most people seem to agree that there's more risk of osmosis in fresh water than in salt water. Higher water temperature (often found in fresh water areas) can also accelerate osmosis. So your hull should be fine!

 

[smeaks]

I think the only difference must be good. I believe Osmosis is the movement of water moecules from a solution of low concentrate to one that is more cocentrate. Thus the risk of initiating osmosis in fresh water must be greater than in salt water where the osmotic potentiol is reduced......phew what a mouthfull!

Doibg the same myself next season after 2 yrs in freshwater.. fingers crossed!

steve

 

[Viking]

I dont think you have much to worry about. Just enjoy your new boat - Good Luck!!

 

[LittleShip]

"modern grp hulls will probably last forever!"

Ha !

/forums/images/graemlins/crazy.gif

 

[capel679]

thanks for your advice. it was just a after thought. paranoia
i think they call it.

 

[jleaworthy]

I think it's true to say that most GRP hulls show signs of osmosis if they have been in fresh water for some years - you should see the hire fleet on Loch Ness. If you have no osmosis now, you have nothing to worry about concerning the hull. Engine, if raw water cooled, and skin fittings could be another matter depending om material/design.